How To Make A Homemade Deer Feeder: Step-by-Step

Wondering how to make a homemade deer feeder? You can create a functional and effective deer feeding station with common materials and a few basic tools, providing supplemental deer feeding for your local wildlife. This guide will walk you through building a DIY deer feeder, focusing on a gravity deer feeder design that’s both simple and efficient. We’ll cover everything from choosing your materials to the final setup, ensuring you can build a great corn feeder for deer.

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Why Build a Homemade Deer Feeder?

Setting up a deer feeding station can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to observe deer more closely, offer them much-needed nutrition during harsh winter months, and even help manage local deer populations. Building your own deer feeder means you can customize it to your specific needs and budget, often for a fraction of the cost of a store-bought automatic deer feeder. A well-constructed outdoor deer feeder can also act as a valuable deer attractant feeder.

Planning Your DIY Deer Feeder

Before you grab your tools, take a moment to plan. What kind of deer feeder do you want to build? For beginners, a simple gravity deer feeder is an excellent choice. This type relies on gravity to dispense feed as deer eat it, eliminating the need for complex mechanisms.

Consider these factors:

• Location: Where will you place your feeder? It should be in a safe, accessible spot for deer, away from busy roads or areas where they might feel threatened.
• Capacity: How much feed do you want to store? This will influence the size of your feeder.
• Materials: What readily available materials do you have or can you easily acquire?
• Durability: How long do you want your feeder to last? Choosing weather-resistant materials will extend its lifespan.

Project 1: The Simple PVC Pipe Gravity Feeder

This is one of the easiest and most popular DIY deer feeder designs. It’s perfect for dispensing corn or a corn and protein pellet mix.

Materials Needed:

• One 4-inch diameter PVC pipe: A 5-foot length is usually sufficient.
• One 4-inch PVC elbow: For the bottom of the feeder.
• One 4-inch PVC cap: For the top of the feeder.
• One 4-inch PVC flange: This will be the base that holds the feed.
• PVC primer and cement: To securely join the PVC pieces.
• Screws: Stainless steel screws are best for outdoor use.
• Mounting hardware: Depending on how you plan to secure it (e.g., wood screws, brackets).
• Optional: A small piece of hardware cloth or mesh to prevent larger debris from falling through the flange.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw: A hacksaw or PVC cutter.
• Measuring tape.
• Drill.
• Screwdriver.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing edges.

Step-by-Step Construction:

1. Cut the PVC Pipe:

   • Measure and cut your 5-foot PVC pipe into two pieces. A common configuration is one longer piece for the feed reservoir and a shorter piece for the dispensing chute.
   • Example Cut: A 4-foot piece for the reservoir and a 1-foot piece for the chute.
   • Smooth the Edges: Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges on the cut ends. This ensures a better fit and prevents injuries to you or the deer.

2. Assemble the Dispensing End:

   • Take the 1-foot PVC pipe piece.
   • Attach the 4-inch PVC elbow to one end. This elbow will direct the feed downwards and outward for easy access by deer.
   • Attach the 4-inch PVC flange to the other end of the elbow. This flange acts as the feeding tray. Ensure it’s facing upwards.
   • Important: Apply PVC primer to the surfaces that will be joined, then apply PVC cement and press the pieces together firmly. Hold for a few seconds to ensure a good bond. Let it dry according to the cement manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Prepare the Reservoir:

   • Take the 4-foot PVC pipe piece. This is your main feed storage.
   • Optional Mesh: If using hardware cloth, cut a small piece that fits inside the bottom of the pipe (where it will connect to the elbow). This helps prevent larger debris from clogging the chute. You can secure it with a few screws from the inside, or simply let it rest there if the fit is snug.

4. Join the Reservoir to the Dispensing Chute:

   • Apply PVC primer and cement to the bottom end of the 4-foot reservoir pipe and the top end of the 1-foot chute pipe (the end that does not have the elbow attached).
   • Join these two pieces firmly. Again, follow the cement’s drying instructions. You now have a long, vertical pipe with the feeding mechanism at the bottom.

5. Cap the Top:

   • Place the 4-inch PVC cap onto the top end of the 4-foot reservoir pipe.
   • Secure the cap with PVC primer and cement. This keeps rain and snow out of the feed.

6. Mounting Your Feeder:

   • Your PVC feeder is ready to be mounted. You can:
     • Screw it directly to a sturdy tree: Use long stainless steel screws through the PVC pipe into the tree. Drill pilot holes first.
     • Use mounting brackets: Attach brackets to the pipe and then screw the brackets to a tree or post.
     • Create a simple post: Drive a sturdy wooden post into the ground and attach the feeder to the post.

How to Use Your PVC Feeder:

• Fill the top reservoir with deer feed, like corn or a specialized deer attractant.
• As deer eat from the flange at the bottom, gravity will pull more feed down from the reservoir into the chute and out onto the flange.
• Monitor the feed level and refill as needed.

Project 2: The Bucket and Trough Gravity Feeder

This design uses a large bucket to hold feed and a small trough for dispensing. It’s another excellent option for a simple deer feeder.

Materials Needed:

• One 5-gallon bucket with lid: A sturdy plastic bucket is ideal.
• One small plastic trough: Available at farm or feed supply stores. It should be wide enough for deer to access comfortably.
• PVC pipe: A short section of 2-inch or 3-inch diameter PVC pipe that fits snugly into a hole you’ll cut in the bucket.
• Hardware cloth or mesh (optional): To cover the opening in the bucket and prevent larger debris.
• Screws: Stainless steel screws.
• Sealant: Outdoor-grade silicone sealant or caulk.
• Zip ties or wire: For securing optional mesh.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Drill.
• Hole saw bit: Sized to match your PVC pipe diameter.
• Screwdriver.
• Measuring tape.
• Utility knife or strong scissors.

Step-by-Step Construction:

1. Prepare the Bucket:

   • Decide where you want the feed to exit the bucket. It should be near the bottom, but high enough to allow for a decent amount of feed to sit in the trough.
   • Using the hole saw bit, drill a hole in the side of the bucket for your PVC pipe.

2. Insert the PVC Pipe:

   • Push the section of PVC pipe through the hole you drilled. It should fit snugly.
   • If the fit isn’t perfectly tight, you can use sealant around the outside to create a watertight seal.

3. Attach the Trough:

   • Align the plastic trough so that the PVC pipe empties feed directly into it.
   • Drill small pilot holes through the back of the trough and into the PVC pipe.
   • Secure the trough to the pipe with stainless steel screws. Ensure the screws go into the PVC pipe itself, not just the air gap.

4. Optional Mesh Installation:

   • If you want to prevent larger debris or pests from getting into the feed, cut a piece of hardware cloth.
   • Place it over the opening in the bucket where the PVC pipe enters.
   • Secure it with zip ties or wire threaded through small holes drilled around the opening in the bucket.

5. Secure the Lid:

   • The lid is crucial for keeping the feed dry. Ensure it fits tightly. You might want to drill a few small drainage holes in the lid to prevent moisture buildup, but make sure they are small enough not to let rain directly in.

6. Mounting Your Feeder:

   • This type of feeder can be hung from a tree branch using wire or rope through holes drilled in the bucket handle.
   • Alternatively, you can build a simple wooden stand to hold the bucket.

How to Use Your Bucket Feeder:

• Fill the bucket with your chosen deer feed.
• Place the lid securely.
• Hang or set up the feeder. Deer will eat from the trough, and the feed will flow from the bucket via gravity.

Project 3: The Wood Pallet Feeder

If you have access to old wooden pallets, you can build a robust and attractive deer feeding station. This makes for a great DIY deer feeder that can hold a larger volume of feed.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden Pallets: 2-3 sturdy, heat-treated (HT) pallets are usually enough. Avoid chemically treated (MB) pallets.
• Plywood or OSB: For the back and sides of the feeder.
• Screws: Deck screws are good for outdoor wood projects.
• Hinges (optional): For an opening lid.
• Roofing material (optional): A piece of scrap metal or shingles to protect the feed from rain.
• Posts or legs: For supporting the feeder.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Saw: Circular saw or hand saw.
• Drill.
• Measuring tape.
• Pry bar (if disassembling pallets).
• Hammer.
• Sandpaper.
• Level.

Step-by-Step Construction:

1. Disassemble and Prepare Pallets:

   • Carefully take apart one or two pallets using a pry bar and hammer. You’ll want to salvage usable boards.
   • Remove any protruding nails and sand down rough edges.

2. Build the Base and Sides:

   • You can construct a simple box shape. Use some of the pallet boards to create a bottom frame.
   • Attach vertical supports (also from pallet wood or 2x4s) to the base.
   • Use plywood or OSB to create the back of the feeder, attaching it to the vertical supports.
   • Use pallet boards or plywood to create the sides, leaving an opening at the bottom for the deer to access the feed.

3. Create the Feed Dispensing Area:

   • This is where you’ll need to be creative. You can create a sloped shelf using pallet boards, allowing feed to slide down to the front.
   • Alternatively, you can attach a larger PVC flange or even a metal trough to the bottom opening.
   • Ensure there’s a way for feed to flow easily from the main storage area into the dispensing area.

4. Add a Roof:

   • To protect the feed from the elements, build a simple sloped roof.
   • You can use more pallet boards, plywood, or attach a piece of metal sheeting or shingles for better waterproofing.
   • If you want an opening lid for easy refilling, attach the roof with hinges.

5. Add Legs or Mounting Points:

   • Attach sturdy legs to the bottom of the feeder to lift it off the ground. This helps keep the feed dry and prevents animals like rodents from easily accessing it.
   • Alternatively, design it to be mounted against a tree or post.

6. Finishing Touches:

   • Sand all rough edges.
   • Consider applying an outdoor-safe wood sealant or stain to protect the wood from weather.

How to Use Your Pallet Feeder:

• Fill the feeder with your chosen feed.
• Ensure the roof is securely in place.
• Place it in your desired location. This type of feeder can accommodate larger quantities of corn and other deer attractants.

Choosing the Right Feed for Your Deer Feeder

The type of feed you use can significantly impact the deer in your area.

• Corn: A popular and readily available deer attractant. It provides energy but is lower in protein.
• Deer Pellets: Specially formulated feed with balanced vitamins, minerals, and protein to support deer health, especially during stressful periods like winter.
• Grain Mixes: Combinations of corn, oats, and other grains can be beneficial.
• Minerals and Salt: Deer also need minerals. You can offer mineral blocks or loose mineral supplements.

Important Note: In some regions, supplemental deer feeding may be restricted or illegal, especially during certain times of the year or in areas with chronic wasting disease (CWD). Always check your local wildlife regulations before setting up a deer feeding station.

Where to Place Your Outdoor Deer Feeder

The placement of your deer feeding station is critical for success and for the safety of the deer.

• Away from Roads: Place feeders far enough from roads to minimize the risk of deer-vehicle collisions.
• Near Water Sources: Deer often prefer to feed near water.
• Sheltered Areas: Locating your feeder in or near areas with natural cover (like thickets or brush) provides deer with a sense of security.
• Safe Distance from Hunting Stands: If you hunt, be mindful of the distance between your feeder and your hunting stands to avoid spooking deer.
• Observe Deer Trails: Setting up near established deer trails can encourage them to use your feeder.

Maintenance Tips for Your Homemade Deer Feeder

Regular maintenance will ensure your feeder lasts longer and remains effective.

• Keep it Clean: Periodically clean out old feed to prevent mold and disease.
• Check for Damage: Inspect your feeder for any damage from weather or animals and make repairs promptly.
• Ensure it’s Stable: Make sure the feeder is securely mounted and won’t tip over.
• Monitor Feed Levels: Refill regularly, especially during winter when deer need the extra calories most.
• Inspect for Pests: Check for signs of rodents or insects that might be attracted to the feed or the feeder itself.

Advanced Feeder Concepts (Beyond the Basics)

While our focus has been on simple gravity feeders, there are other types of homemade deer feeders you might consider as you gain experience.

Automatic Deer Feeder Considerations:

Building an automatic deer feeder from scratch can be complex, often involving timers, motors, and hoppers. These are usually more practical to purchase. However, you can incorporate simple timer-based dispensing into a DIY project by using battery-powered auger systems or timed gate openers, but this requires more advanced DIY skills and electronics knowledge.

Corn Feeder for Deer: Specifics

When designing a corn feeder for deer, remember that corn can be dusty. Ensure good ventilation if possible, or consider feed mixes that are less prone to dust. The dispensing mechanism should allow for a steady flow of corn without jamming.

Deer Attractant Feeder Applications

Your homemade feeder can be used not just for corn but also for various deer attractants. These might include specialized protein pellets, fruit, or mineral supplements. The design of the feeder should accommodate the size and consistency of the attractant you plan to use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is it legal to feed deer?
A1: Laws regarding feeding deer vary significantly by state and even by county. Some areas prohibit supplemental feeding due to concerns about disease transmission (like CWD) or over-concentration of deer. Always check with your local wildlife agency or department of natural resources before setting up a feeder.

Q2: What is the best time of year to start supplemental deer feeding?
A2: The most beneficial time for supplemental deer feeding is typically during the late fall and winter months when natural food sources are scarce, and deer expend more energy to stay warm. Feeding during spring and summer can also be helpful, especially in areas with poor forage quality.

Q3: How much feed should I put out?
A3: Start with a modest amount. If the feed is consumed quickly, you can gradually increase the quantity. Overfilling can lead to waste and attract unwanted pests. Observe the deer’s consumption patterns.

Q4: Will feeding deer make them dependent on me?
A4: While deer may become accustomed to a food source, they are wild animals and will continue to forage for natural food. Supplemental feeding is intended to “supplement” their diet, not replace it entirely. Proper placement away from human habitation also helps maintain their natural wariness.

Q5: What kind of wood is best for building a feeder?
A5: If you’re building a wooden feeder, opt for rot-resistant woods like cedar or redwood. If using pine or other softer woods, be sure to treat them with an outdoor-safe sealant or stain to protect them from moisture and insects. Avoid pressure-treated lumber if possible, as the chemicals can be harmful to wildlife.

Q6: How do I keep squirrels and other small animals from eating all the feed?
A6: This is a common challenge. For PVC feeders, placing them higher off the ground or using baffles on the supporting post can deter squirrels. For wooden feeders, designing them with narrower openings or using hardware cloth can help limit access to smaller critters. Sometimes, a feeder designed specifically as a corn feeder for deer, with a robust dispensing system, can also be less accessible to smaller animals.

Creating your own deer feeder is a practical and enjoyable project. Whether you opt for a simple PVC pipe design or a more involved wooden structure, you’ll be providing a valuable resource for your local deer population. Remember to always prioritize safety, follow local regulations, and enjoy observing the wildlife you help support.